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snoozejonc
10/10 - So perfect that I never get tired of seeing
09/10 - Brilliant with some minor flaws but I happily rewatch
08/10 - Very strong and I would happily rewatch
07/10 - Good and I would eventually rewatch
06/10 - Hit and miss, that I found mostly enjoyable but would not seek to rewatch
05/10 - Distinctly average and I would not seek to rewatch
04/10 - Mostly did not enjoy and would avoid rewatching
03/10 - Strongly disliked for a variety of reasons
02/10 - I either switched off, walked out of the cinema or was close to doing either
01/10 - So bad that I would describe it as not professionally made in any way
I appreciate all scoring is highly subjective to the tastes of an individual.
I take into consideration the writing, cinematography, editing, acting, sound, visual effects and general production values along with the era the film or television show was made.
Reviews
Hannibal: Mukozuke (2014)
Too audacious to live
This is a strong follow up to the cliffhanger of the previous episode. For me it's most important objective after showing Beverly's reckless behaviour is a suitable outcome and it does so with interest. The art designers of Hannibal pride themselves on creating macabre visuals and this has more unforgettable imagery.
Other highlights of the episode include the manipulative conversations taking place between various characters at the psychiatric hospital. A lot of intrigue is created by the dialogue exchanges, particularly involving Gideon, Graham and Lecter. I am compelled to find out what is going to happen to these over the next few chapters..
That being said we know Hannibal ends up in a cell eventually, so the intrigue goes only so far. Likewise any suspense associated with a certain scene towards the end. Considering the contrivances involved the filmmakers still make it a very cinematic moment full of striking imagery.
For me its an 8.5/10, but I round upwards.
Hannibal: Su-zakana (2014)
Rebirth
Su-zakana's apt themes of rebirth involves the writers pulling back from the recent Lecter focussed carnage and letting the show's original formula rise from the ashes. If you like the killer-of-the-week trope and the associated character exchanges between Graham and Lecter you are sure to take comfort in this one.
The above is done with a new dynamic between the two characters that works well. Various bit of symbolism and parallels are prominent a several scenes, plus it has an unhealthy dose of horse-related body horror.
Some new characters established in the book Hannibal are introduced, piquing an interest in how the series writers will portray them in future episodes.
There are more love scenes involving Lecter, which continue the show's tendency to glamourise this fictional serial killer. For me the character's relationship with Dr Bloom needs an appropriate resolution in the overarching narrative to counterbalance this.
Visually it is pretty gruesome at times and as always beautifully filmed.
All actors are on great form, particularly Jeremy Davies.
Hannibal: Yakimono (2014)
Strong episode
Yakimono is full of great twists and turns but requires a liberal suspension of disbelief.
The great conclusion of the previous episode is followed up in outrageous style by the writers continuing to portray Hannibal's elusiveness. It would seem the writers are testing their ability to Breaking Bad their way of painted-in corners with Lecter's ability to manipulate. Does it work? Almost, but not entirely, in my opinion. Some contrivances are slightly too strong, such as how well he anticipates the actions of others and how perfectly everything appears to work out in relation to his manipulation of Miriam Lass. Certain characters are beginning to look gullible at the hands of his trickery. Despite the damning physical evidence, I have difficulty accepting that any self-respecting criminal investigator or psychological profiler would accept Chilton as the ripper at this point. It is however still a compelling journey with Graham v Lecter at the heart of the case. I want to see how he's caught. Hopefully it will involve being outsmarted by Graham.
As always the visuals are tremendous and the performances are great. Anna Chlumsky is particularly good in all her scenes and likewise Raùl Esparza.
Star Trek: Discovery: Rosetta (2022)
Just about saved by the visuals
Rosetta is a typical Discovery episode that takes a decent premise and clutters it up with the typical counselling sessions.
I generally like the away mission and the emotional moments are an important part of the plot's resolution. Unfortunately the writers focus so much on these themes in virtually every episode you feel saturated by the characters' feelings. The sub-plot on Discovery is less interesting, but necessary to keep the arc of Booker and Tarkan progressing. The less said about the very forced "tact" related dialogue between two characters the better.
For me the writers continue to drag out the build-up to Species 10C and have not justified a full season's screen time with enough interesting material. For a plot that recently had a ticking clock element introduced it generally lacks urgency.
I dislike the slow motion strutting at the start, but generally the visuals are strong. Putting the away team in an inhospitable environment is always good and the art design is great.
5.5/10 for me but I round upwards.
Hannibal: Hassun (2014)
Strong episode
Hossun has an intriguing focus on Lecter's behaviour in relation to Graham's situation.
As a general rule I am not a huge fan of courtroom drama, but the related scenes are solidly portrayed with little of the usual clichés associated with the genre.
Lecter's seemingly genuine attitude towards Will's defence is a concept that introduces a nice bit of uncertainty to the story. It now becomes even more interesting to find out how we get to that flashforward moment (involving Crawford and Lecter) shown in the season's opening scene. Speaking of Crawford the writers develop the character in a positive way in this episode.
As ever Hannibal likes to horrify and the writers cannot help themselves regardless of the story being mostly courtroom procedure. One such moment does so whilst also twisting the plot in an unexpected direction.
Visually it has more of the traditional standout moments involving crime scenes and Graham's dream and visions.
Hannibal: Takiawase (2014)
The cure
I think Takiawase is one of the bleakest but effective episodes of Hannibal so far.
It's killer-of-the-week trope is one of the most unusual and the casting of Amanda Plummer is one of the best creative decision made by the filmmakers. So many guest stars have been good, but never quite made me feel they are the disturbed individual they portray, as opposed to an actor playing the part. However, without question she does it effortlessly. This aspect of the story portrays the main themes of the episode that tie in brilliantly with the scenes involving Bella, Jack and Hannibal.
Bella and Jack have a number of emotional scenes together that are quite touching. Lawrence Fishburne and Gia Torres are incredibly good together. Hannibal's god complex links perfectly to this. Only with this character could saving a life feel almost as chilling as taking one.
Speaking of chilling, if you set aside the "too stupid to live" aspect of a certain character's actions, the final scene includes some of the most nightmare inducing moments of Hannibal so far. I was getting to a point in the show of feeling that Mads Mikkelsen's version is nowhere near as scary as the Anthony Hopkins counterpart in Silence of the Lambs, however the final few moments (visually) are up there.
As always the visuals are powerful and all performances are strong.
For me it is a 9.5/10, but I round upwards.
Hannibal: Sakizuke (2014)
Gruesome follow up to the opening episode
Sakizuki is a grim episode on numerous levels. The scenes involving the killer-of-the-week and his victims are hideous in both visuals and concept. The tone for this is set from the opening scene, which has to be one of the most disturbing pre-credit sequences in a tv show.
The writers wisely choose to focus on Lecter's involvement in the case, which is more compelling than trying to explain the psychological profile of a new character. It links well to Lecter's character development, God complex, and provides some opportunities for dark humour; "Love your work".
Thankfully in the midst of this macabre plot are some rays of hope in the shape of Will Graham's scenes, which hint at what is likely to be coming from the character. Additionally Dr DuMaurier is used well by the writers. All actors are great as ever, particularly Hugh Dancy.
As horrific as certain scenes are you have to appreciate the art direction and cinematography in general.
Better Call Saul: Alpine Shepherd Boy (2015)
Strong episode with standout moments
Alpine Shepherd Boy develops the character Jimmy and Chuck nicely. Chuck's condition is given a strong focus, which at this point in the overarching narrative is needed. In association with this the writers do a great job of expanding on their relationship. Jimmy's genuine care for Chuck further increases his likability as a lead character.
Additionally there is some fantastic humour in Jimmy's attempts to link with new clients in the early scenes as he interacts with various colourful characters. Likewise his schmooze at the retirement home is very entertaining. These are my favourite moments and lift the episode significantly.
It is a fairly uneven episode that shifts in tone frequently. Focus shifts almost entirely to Mike towards the end, which involves some great moments of visual storytelling that sets up the next episode well.
Bob Odenkirk is outstanding as always and receives great support from Michael McKean and others.
For me it is an 8.5/10, but I round upwards.
Hannibal: Kaiseki (2014)
Grim in moments, but a very strong start
Kaiseki follows on effortlessly from the impactful conclusion of the first season.
The opening scene is unexpected and incredibly well constructed visually. It also sets the scene in a 'Breaking Bad' style way, peaking curiosity about how the writers will take you to this point in the story.
Characters such as Graham, Crawford, Lecter, Dr Bloom, and Dr DuMaurier are used perfectly in relation to what has become of Graham. I particularly like how the consequences of Crawford's previous decisions regarding Graham are being scrutinised as details like this are sometimes conveniently ignored by writers. Likewise they are not making the plot conveniently oblivious to Lecter as a suspect which makes it feel more plausible.
Some of the crime scene and horror sequences are suitably hideous as always. Visually they are brilliantly designed, filmed and edited. Generally the cinematography and art direction is excellent throughout the episode.
All actors are on great form as always.
Better Call Saul: Hero (2015)
Very amusing with memorable moments
Hero is another very strong episode that explores Jimmy's character nicely in various interesting scenes. The introductory flashback sets the tone nicely for what is to come.
It follows on from the previous situation with the Kettlemans in a compelling way, with some good focus on Jimmy's public persona and underlying fortitude. For me his best exchanges of dialogue are with Kettlemans and with Nacho in a follow up scene. It is all well written and performed. Bob Odenkirk is sheer entertainment as always and he supported well by the likes of Rhea Seehorn, Patrick Fabian and others.
Although lighter in its subject matter it is reminiscent of Breaking Bad's style. The writers paint characters into corners and plausibly extract them. I love the whole situation with Jimmy and the billboard, which is both clever and funny.
As always the cinematography, art design and editing is top drawer.
Hannibal: Savoureux (2013)
Stitched up like a kipper
Hannibal like to present its characters dead, gutted, skinned and cooked, but none resemble the above breakfast item more then Will Graham by the end of this episode. The writers have done an effective job of it slowly throughout the season and it all leads to this very strong episode. Importantly it ends in a way that perfectly hooks you into the next season.
All characters are used well especially Graham, Hannibal, Crawford and Dr Bloom. You do have suspend the disbelief that nobody seems to suspect Hannibal, but maybe my bias is informed by prior knowledge of the character. Dr DuMaurier's scenes are intriguing as ever.
As always the visuals are top drawer and performances are great.
As a first season it surpassed what my expectations were beforehand. It is hard seeing anyone other than Anthony Hopkins as Lecter, and although Mikkelsen's version is a bit to glamourised, it works well for the story.
Hannibal: Relevés (2013)
Very strong set up to the season finale
Relevés very much feels like the first half of a two-part episode as everything falls into place perfectly for its cliffhanger ending. It makes me want to know what happens next and have to restrain myself from finding out immediately.
I cannot give much detail without spoiling. However, it's safe to say that the writers make excellent use of the foundations laid by previous plot details throughout the season and bring the characters to a riveting place under the most tense of circumstances. Arguably it's predictable, but I do not think it makes it any less gripping.
Characters like Abigail, Lecter, Graham, and Jack Crawford are used particularly well in the main events, plus there is a lot of interest peaked in the character of Dr DuMaurier.
Visually it is incredibly effective as always and the cast are terrific.
Hannibal: Rôti (2013)
Blood, guts and psychiatry
I am glad they followed up the previous introduction of Dr Abel Gideon with this episode that makes the most of the character. The writers use him effectively as a main antagonist but also in conjunction the continuing focus on Will Graham's mental deterioration. Eddie Izzard is great in the role, but I still think he is miscast as I cannot disassociate myself from his comedy. That being said, when Gideon is used for the purpose of jet black humour (lines about marriage etc), I see the advantage of it being Izzard.
For me the strongest aspect are the scenes involving Graham. The filmmakers and Hugh Dancy portray his physical and mental state compellingly. It is almost too realistic in some moments as you feel like shouting at Crawford or Bloom to pull him out of situations and march him strait to a hospital for a second opinion.
The writers continue to use Lecter in a clever manipulative way in his interactions with others.
I don't find gore particularly entertaining and it's hard to argue against certain moments being gratuitous, but visually it is impressive as always. In addition to the body horror the psychological scenes involving Graham's hallucinations are strong. Generally the suspense created by what we see and hear is great.
Star Trek: Discovery: The Galactic Barrier (2022)
Not bad but kills momentum
Overall for me this is an okay episode thanks to some good character development and backstory for the character Tarka. He has been one of the more enjoyable presences of the fourth season, thanks to Shawn Doyle's entertaining performances and giving him more screen time is a positive. That being said I think the information revealed in his backstory is moderately interesting at best, however it makes you invest more in his mission.
The scenes related to the galactic barrier are a decent enough problem for the crew to overcome, but frustrate with their ability to destroy the flow of the overarching narrative. It feels like the crew should have been out of the Milky Way two episodes ago.
Any Burnham detractors will likely take umbrage at hearing her teach the Federation President all about good leadership. I think it's quite funny as it borders on unintentional parody how much the writers put her on a pedestal.
The less said about Stamets' awkward dialogue with the character Grey the better, particularly that forced line about his father. The writers can't help themselves!
Hannibal: Buffet Froid (2013)
Nightmare fuel
Hannibal is a disturbing show and portrays concepts that are frequently horrific, however Buffet Froid is the first episode with a tone that I would describe as pure horror. Like most episodes the subject matter is not enjoyable, but as a viewing experience of filmmaking designed to induce fear it is the most powerful of the show so far.
It has a strong scenes involving Graham, Crawford and Lecter, revealing more about Lecter's intentions and the reason for Will's deteriorating mental state. For me it is very compelling and makes me want to find out what will happen next.
The obligatory killer-of-the-week trope is quite different (in a positive way) to the usual stock serial-killer style that previous episodes have used. I find this to be one of the scariest examples, as the motivation makes you pity both the victim and perpetrator, plus it intwines well with the arcs of Graham and Lecter.
Importantly the visual storytelling is incredibly effective. The opening scene is up there with any classic suspenseful-horror sequence and likewise the follow-up scenes involving Will's experiences with crime scene. To be honest every scene involving the Ellen Muth's character and other related scenes is difficult to forget.
All actors are on great form as ever.
I have always found horror and what scares a viewer to be down to personal fears, similar to comedy depending on what appeals to a particular sense of humour. I think Buffet Froid taps into fears that many will identify with, such as the safety associated with your own bed and exploits it well.
Hannibal: Trou Normand (2013)
Intriguing episode for the main characters
This is a strong episode for character development associated with Lecter, Graham, and Abigail. The writers use their relationships well along with the associated deception. What we find out towards the end is a particularly interesting twist.
The killer-of-the-week aspect of the plot is suitably horrific in its concept, but for me it does not make the most of Lance Henriksen. He is great when on screen but there is not much material to justify his appearance. Hannibal is a show that focuses well on its central characters but sometimes shortchanges the one-off serial killers to the point they feel like stock villains due to the lack of detail afforded to them as individuals.
Visually the cinematography, art design and editing is great as always.
Hannibal: Fromage (2013)
A sadistic face-off
Fromage is another strong Lecter focussed episode. Certain aspects of the story were set up nicely in Sorbet for the killer-of-the-week aspect of the plot. What it does well is develop Lecter's character through his friendship needs and choices. The reflective scenes with Dr Du Maurier compliment what happens quite well.
The story also functions as a lead-in to some effective moments of horror suspense and a big action climax. As you can imagine the filmmakers do great work in these scenes. One set in a creepy basement is quite spine-tingling. Additionally there are several bits that put you on edge such as the moment Will listens through a wall for a sound and pretty much every scene involving the character Tobias.
Will's mental deterioration continues to be effectively portrayed in multiple scenes. Hugh Dancy is as convincing as ever in these moments.
For me it is an 8.5/10, but I round upwards.
Hannibal: Sorbet (2013)
Macabre elegance
The plot does have a killer-of-the-week aspect to it, but there is a heavy focus on Hannibal Lecter that follows on perfectly from the previous episode. His actions are depicted in that clever, largely unseen way that has been use well so far in the show. There is also some interesting backstory elements that slightly expand his portrayal.
There is no denying that the subject matter (as to be expected) is horrendous, but the writers, filmmakers and actors manage to put across a lot of disturbing imagery in a fairly graceful way using impressive art direction, strong editing and use of music. It tells it's story visually and that's all you can ask on screen.
All actors are on great form as ever, particularly Hugh Dancy, Mads Mikkelsen and Lawrence Fishburne. Gillian Anderson also makes a good impression in a strong first scene for her character.
There is very little to enjoy in such dark subject matter, outside of the irony of what's happening and certain moments of banter between the forensic investigation characters, but there is no denying it is well made and engaging.
For me it's an 8.5/10 but I round upwards.
Hannibal: Entrée (2013)
The main plot kicks into gear
This is another strong episode and it feels like a distinct uplift in momentum regarding characters like Lecter and Jack Crawford.
It is difficult to mention details without spoiling, but the plot focuses on the activities of a certain serial killer with potential links to one already incarcerated. For me the plot unfolds in a suspenseful and compelling way that leads to a good reveal. The reveal of course is quite predictable, given what has been implied in the previous episodes.
For me the writers make good use of the characters Will Graham, Hannibal Lecter, Jack Crawford and Dr Chilton. Fans of the movie Silence of the Lambs should appreciate it and also the aesthetic created at a certain location.
Generally the visuals (although horrific) are incredibly well designed and captured by the cinematography. As always the sound makes everything that much creepier.
I think the cast, particularly the main stars, is on great form. However, I personally think Eddie Izzard was miscast. I am a fan of his comedy and cannot get past the fact that it is him, which takes me out of the moment. His bearded face reminds me of David Brent in certain images.
Star Trek: Discovery: Rubicon (2022)
Enjoyable episode
I think this is a pretty entertaining episode with a classic Star Trek cat and mouse situation in space. Of course there is only so much suspense that can be generated in certain situations because you know the writers are unlikely to cross the line of making certain characters kill each other or become full-blooded enemies. (It's not Trek)
I like emphasis within the character conflict situations on finding a middle ground, even if doing so relies on a bit of technobabble. These are good subjects to explore and feel traditionally Trek in philosophy. There are some moments where it feels a bit forced, particularly the dialogue between Bryce and Rhys. In fact this makes both characters look annoyingly unprofessional for the sake of setting up an underlying theme and giving Culiber an opportunity to look cool.
I like the return of a certain character, (one of the better ones from previous episodes) who is used well in a slightly adversarial role to the character Michael. This could have been made more dramatic, but you always feel a plot contrivance will come about to save Michael from having to make a certain decision.
As always Michael is front and centre of the most important scenes. In this instance for me it works well and is quite cinematic. I do though like that Stamets gets to make a key contribution. Where would starship's be without their engineers?
Hannibal: Oeuf (2013)
Solid character episode
This is an effective establishing episode for many of the main characters, particularly Lecter, Graham, Bloom, and Crawford. Recurring characters such as Abigail Hobbs, and also the FBI forensic team have great moments. The theme of family and the behaviours linked with connecting and disconnecting to a family is explored very well in their actions and dialogue.
I have similar feelings to other reviewers about the killer-of-the-week aspect of this chapter. It is one of the most disturbing concepts I have ever seen portrayed in a fictional story and links perfectly to the family related themes. However, more should have been included about how this individual successfully brainwashed the perpetrators to commit these acts to make it more plausible.
Visually it is another incredibly effective piece of filmmaking. The imagery associated with the crime scenes are some of the most horrific I have encountered. Plus the general cinematography, sound and editing is as great as ever.
If you are looking for a bit of light escapism, I would avoid this one (and Hannibal).
For me it is a 7.5/10, but I round upwards.
Hannibal: Potage (2013)
Story and characters develop well
This is an appropriate title as the plot thickens like potage, especially the involvement of Hannibal. He is portrayed as suitably cold and calculating in his actions. There is also a continued focus on the events and characters from the first episode, which works well. It is important to follow up on the fallout involving Abigail, but also explore her character considering her backstory. This ties in well to the show's themes about what makes people kill.
Visually, it another excellent example of the camera, art direction, editing and sound combining to tell the story in a creepy and at times suspenseful way. Certain moments, such as the one involving the dripping blood and the follow-up reveal are particularly well done.
All actors play the parts well, especially Kacey Rohl, Hugh Dancy, Madds Mikkelson, Lawrence Fishburne, Lara Jean Chorostecki, and Caroline Dhavernas. I like the way Dhavernas looks at other characters in a way that feels like she is looking into their soul like a psychoanalyst.
Hannibal: Amuse-Bouche (2013)
Follows on well from a solid start
Amuse-Bouche establishes immediately that Hannibal will not be a purely episodic monster-of-the-week show and gives you confidence about what is to come. We not only see characters dealing with the fallout of the previous episode, but it connects very well to the next case.
The show is still in character-establishing mode and does it well with the likes of Graham, Lecter, Crawford and also introduces another interesting individual. Compared to Aperitif the dialogue here is far less obvious and clunky in its exposition which works better. I like the exchanges between Graham and Lecter, which contains interesting themes about how individuals feel about the subject of killing another human being.
Visually it is disturbing but wonderfully crafted. The crime scenes include some quite macabre art design, whilst in general the cinematography, sound and editing is very effective.
All the lead actors are on great form.
Bluey: Bin Night (2020)
The one that hooked me
This will always be a special episode of Bluey for me as it the one that captured my attention. There had been a few episodes on in the background at home of which moments me smile, but in Bin Night I noticed the creative power on display.
I love the setting being a recognisable and usually mundane task that every household undertakes, but Bluey turns it into series of beautifully warm interactions between family and others. This includes the typically inspiring parent-child moments. It is all presented in a narrative the cleverly shows the passage of time with great visual storytelling.
Generally the animation is fabulous as ever and the humour works well. A sketch about cartoon dogs chatting as the take the bins out has no right to be this good.
Bluey: Cafe (2020)
Astute observation of adult interaction
Cafe is one of those great observational episodes that Bluey does so well.
Any parent who has been put in this slightly awkward position by a child should be able to empathise. I recognise it from numerous park encounters over the years. I love how it contrasts the innocent delight of social interaction through the eyes of a child with the struggle of a seasoned adult. All the body language and interplay between character s is spot on.
Sadly most of the situations I have experienced do not end in the beautifully positive way this story does. Most dads in my vicinity keep to themselves (or their phones) and rarely engage with thirty parties unless they happen to be an attractive mum.
All that said, Bluey portrays how the world should be and shows us behaviour to which we should aspire.